The Rise of Secondary Suites in Edmonton: What You Need to Know

If you've been paying attention to Edmonton’s housing scene lately, you’ve probably noticed a term popping up more often: secondary suites. These basement apartments, garage suites, and garden units are becoming a hot topic—and for good reason.

As housing demand grows and affordability remains top of mind, both the City of Edmonton and savvy homeowners are embracing secondary suites as a solution. Whether you're a homeowner looking to supplement your mortgage or an investor eyeing cash flow opportunities, understanding the ins and outs of secondary suites in Edmonton could be a game-changer in 2025.

Let’s break it down.

What is a Secondary Suite?

A secondary suite is a self-contained living space within or next to a single-family home. It has its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area.

Common types include:

• Basement suites

• Garden suites (backyard homes)

• Garage suites (above or beside garages)

• In-law or nanny suites

These suites are typically rented out for long-term housing but can also be used for multigenerational living or short-term rentals (with proper permits).

Why Are Secondary Suites on the Rise in Edmonton?

There’s a perfect storm of reasons secondary suites are becoming increasingly popular:

1. Housing Affordability Crisis

With rising home prices and rent rates, secondary suites help make housing more accessible. Homeowners can offset their mortgage, while renters get access to more affordable rental units.

2. City Support & Regulation Changes

Edmonton’s municipal government has streamlined the approval process, eliminated fees (in some cases), and made it easier to legalize secondary suites under zoning changes. [2]

Recent updates include:

• Broader zoning allowances (RF1, RF2, RF3)

• Simplified permit applications

• No minimum parking requirements for secondary suites in certain zones

3. Income Potential for Homeowners

A legal secondary suite can bring in $1,000–$1,500+ per month depending on location and quality.

4. Higher Property Value

Properties with legal, well-designed secondary suites often sell for more, appealing to investors and multigenerational families.

The Current Landscape in 2025

Based on recent data and trends:

• Applications for secondary suites in Edmonton are up 20%+ over the last two years [5]

• Garage and garden suites are rising in popularity

• South Edmonton neighbourhoods like Mill Woods and The Meadows are hotspots for new suite development

How to Build or Legalize a Secondary Suite in Edmonton

Here’s how to get started:

1. Check Your Zoning

Use Edmonton’s Zoning Bylaw 12800 or their Interactive Zoning Map to see if your property qualifies.

Most eligible zones include:

• RF1: Single Detached Residential

• RF2: Low Density Infill

• RF3: Small Scale Infill Development

2. Design to Code

Your suite must meet all of Edmonton’s building and safety codes, such as:

• Separate entrance

• Minimum ceiling height of 1.95m

• Full kitchen and bathroom

• Fire separations and smoke alarms

• Egress windows

View the official Secondary Suites Requirements Guide for specifics.

3. Apply for Permits

You’ll need:

• Development permit

• Building permit

• Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC permits if applicable

Permits can be submitted via the City of Edmonton Permit Portal.

4. Pass Inspection & Register the Suite

Once complete, your suite must pass all inspections and then be registered with the city as a legal unit.

How Secondary Suites Maximize ROI

Here’s how a suite can supercharge your return on investment:

More Rent, Less Risk

• Two units = two income streams.

• Reduce vacancy impact by 50%.

• Higher net income even after additional taxes or utilities.

Improved Mortgage Qualification

Lenders may count rental income from legal suites toward your income—boosting your borrowing power. [7]

Increased Resale Value

A legal suite makes your property more attractive to other investors or owner-occupiers, driving up resale price.

What to Watch Out For

Even with all the benefits, there are a few things to consider:

Illegal Suites Are a Liability

Renting an unpermitted suite can:

• Void your home insurance

• Lead to fines or removal orders

• Jeopardize tenant safety and landlord liability

Landlord Responsibilities

You’ll need to follow Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act, which includes:

• Providing written lease agreements

• Handling repairs promptly

• Respecting tenant privacy

Costs to Budget For

• Construction: $50,000–$120,000+

• Permit and application fees (if applicable)

• Property tax reassessment

• Ongoing maintenance

Tips for Success

• Hire licensed contractors who know Edmonton codes

• Include separate laundry and private entrances

• Offer amenities like in-suite Wi-Fi, pet-friendliness, or flexible lease terms

• Screen tenants carefully or work with a property manager

• Advertise on platforms like RentFaster.ca or Facebook Marketplace with high-quality photos

Looking Ahead: The Future of Secondary Suites in Edmonton

As Edmonton continues growing, expect to see:

• More garage and garden suites in infill developments

• Further streamlining of regulations

• Stronger tenant demand for affordable and self-contained units

• A rise in investor interest in suite-ready properties

With the city's proactive housing strategies and rising cost of living, secondary suites are likely to remain a vital part of Edmonton’s real estate ecosystem.

FAQs

Q: Are all Edmonton homes eligible for secondary suites?A: No. Zoning, lot size, and building code compliance determine eligibility. Always check with the City of Edmonton before starting.

Q: What are the main types of secondary suites?A: Basement suites, garage suites, garden suites, and in-law/nanny suites.

Q: Can I use a secondary suite as a short-term rental (Airbnb)?A: You may need a business license and special approval. Check the city's short-term rental regulations.

Q: Will adding a suite affect my property taxes?A: Yes. The city will likely reassess your property value, which can increase your taxes—but this is usually offset by the rental income.

Final Thoughts

Secondary suites are no longer just a “basement rental”—they’re an integral part of Edmonton’s housing solution and a savvy move for investors and homeowners alike.

With the right permits, smart design, and a good tenant strategy, your home could become a double-income powerhouse.

Need help getting started? Contact a licensed REALTOR® or zoning consultant in Edmonton to walk you through the process.

Sources & References

CBC Edmonton – Edmonton’s affordable housing shortageCity of Edmonton Zoning Bylaw 12800RentFaster.ca – Average Rental Prices Edmonton Real Estate Board Market Reports City of Edmonton Building Permit ReportsCity of Edmonton Secondary Suites Guide (PDF)CMHC – Rental Income and Mortgage Qualification

“This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult a licensed contractor, property manager, or the City of Edmonton for up-to-date regulations and permits.”